Experts weigh benefits, dangers of pepper spray

Alex McElvain/Senior Staff Photographer

Two pepper sprays -- self-defense spray and law enforcement unit spray -- are displayed for sale Monday at Armygear Military Surplus store. Armygear assistant manager Brett Burns said legislation requires police sprays to contain only capsaicin, though other self-defense sprays can contain military-grade tear gas.

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SPRAY FOR STUDENTS

Pepper spray canisters with a stream delivery system are easier to aim and not as affected by the wind as other models. Although the Sabre models are easier to transport, their small sizes only allow for one or two sprays each. All Fox products feature large nozzle openings to discharge more per burst.

Sabre

Cyclist Self Defense Spray for Bikes (model #: CY-35)

Quanity: 1.25 ounces

Method: stream delivery

Distance: 8-10 feet

Type: attaches to bike frame

Price: $15.99
Jogger Self Defense Spray for Runners (P-22J)

Quantity: .75 ounces

Method: stream delivery

Distance: 8-10 feet

Type: adjustable hand strap, small, easy to carry

Price: $12.99
Combo Keychain Self Defense Spray with Extra Practice Canister and Quick Release
(STUHC-14)

Quantity: .54 ounces

Method: stream delivery

Distance: 8-10 feet

Type: comes attached to key ring, includes instructions and practice canister

Price: $14.99

Fox Labs

Mark 3 Flip Top

Quantity: 2 ounces

Method: fog or stream delivery

Distance: fog 15-18 feet, stream 17-20 feet

Type: safety flip top prevents accidental discharge

Price: $14.50

Source: MUPD officer Adam Duncan

49°F (9°C)Wind: 6 mph SW

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Maneater Madness 2010

Experts weigh benefits, dangers of pepper spray

SPRAY FOR STUDENTS

49°F (9°C)
Wind: 6 mph SW